IPL 2026: Chennai Super Kings bank on new philosophy to achieve old success

NEW DELHI: Following a significant squad overhaul and a strategic tilt toward youth, five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) enter IPL 2026 seeking to achieve their success just like the good old times after finishing at the bottom of the points table last season.

The CSK team management moved swiftly to address the failings of 2025, overhauling the squad with a clear eye on both the present and the years beyond after years of wearing the ‘Dad’s Army’ tag.

The biggest statement of intent was the acquisition of wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson via trade, along with youngsters Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma, snapped for Rs 14 crore each at the auction. IANS takes a look at how CSK are shaping up for IPL 2026, where all eyes will be on their redemption story.

Strength: The most compelling asset in CSK's arsenal is their Indian batting core. The trio of Samson, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Shivam Dube makes for a robust combination. Add to it, Samson being Player of the Tournament in India’s T20 World Cup win at home and Dube being one of the key players in the triumph, bodes well for CSK.